Apparatus and methods to communicate fluids and/or support intraosseous devices

ABSTRACT

Fluid communication devices and supporting structures may be provided for use with intraosseous devices. Apparatus and methods may also be provided to communicate fluids with an intraosseous device.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication entitled “Apparatus and Methods to Communicate Fluids and/orSupport Intraosseous Devices,” Application Ser. No. 60/863,521 filedOct. 30, 2006.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is related to apparatus and methods which may beused to support an intraosseous device after insertion into a targetarea and/or to communicate fluids with the target area via theintraosseous device.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Vascular access is often essential to viability of a patient inemergency situations, during transportation to a medical facility andduring treatment at the medical facility. Obtaining vascular access maybe a significant problem in five to ten percent of patients of all agesand weight in pre-hospital and hospital environments. This equates toapproximately six (6) million patients in the U.S. annually. For examplepatients suffering from conditions such as shock, cardiac arrest, drugoverdose, dehydration, diabetic coma, renal failure and altered statesof consciousness may have very few (if any) accessible veins.

In a hospital or similar medical facility, central line access is oftenan alternative to IV access. However, central line access generallytakes longer, costs more, may have a higher risk of complications andrequires skilled personnel to properly insert the central line. In manyhospital environments, nurses and physicians are increasingly turning tointraosseous (IO) access as an alternative to IV access, rather thancentral lines. In pre-hospital environments, paramedics and otheremergency medical service (EMS) providers are often finding that IOaccess may be quick, safe and effective when IV placement ischallenging.

Intraosseous (IO) access to bone and associated bone marrow has beenused for other procedures including, but not limited to, obtainingbiopsy specimens for analysis and research and also for bone marrowtransplantation and/or stem cell research.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In accordance with teachings of the present disclosure, apparatus andmethods may be provided to facilitate access to a patient's vascularsystem and to communicate fluids with the vascular system. Intraosseous(IO) devices and techniques incorporating teachings of the presentdisclosure may communicate various fluids including, but not limited to,drugs and medication with the vascular system. Supporting structures,attachment devices and attachment techniques incorporating teachings ofthe present disclosure may be used to enhance performance of varioustypes of IO devices including, but not limited to, IO devices used tocommunicate fluids with the vascular system and/or IO devices used toobtain bone and/or bone marrow samples.

One aspect of the present disclosure may include providing apparatus andmethods for stabilizing or securing an intraosseous device disposed in abone and associated bone marrow. Supporting structures, attachmentdevices and attachment techniques incorporating teachings of the presentdisclosure may be used with a wide variety of intraosseous devices.

The present disclosure may provide apparatus and methods to establishvascular access during treatment at a wide variety of acute and chronicconditions at locations and facilities including, but not limited to,accident sites, emergency rooms, battlefields, emergency medicalservices (EMS) facilities, oncology treatment centers, and chronicdisease treatment facilities. Various teachings of the presentdisclosure may be used during treatment of animals in a veterinarypractice.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete and thorough understanding of the present embodimentsand advantages thereof may be acquired by referring to the followingdescription taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich like reference numbers indicate like features, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing showing an isometric view of a powereddriver which may be used to place an intraosseous device at a selectedinsertion site;

FIG. 2 is a schematic drawing showing a side view of a manual driverwhich may be used to place an intraosseous device at a selectedinsertion site;

FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing in section and in elevation with portionsbroken away showing an exploded view of one example of an intraosseousdevice;

FIG. 4 is a schematic drawing showing an isometric view of theintraosseous device of FIG. 3 disposed in a container;

FIG. 5A is a schematic drawing showing an isometric view of an apparatuswhich may be used to communicate fluids with a target area via anintraosseous device in accordance with teachings of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 5B is a schematic drawing in section showing one example of aconnector assembly which may be used to attach a fluid source, pressurepump, and tubing with an intraosseous device in accordance withteachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5C is a schematic drawing with portions broken away showing oneexample of an ampule which may be connected with an intraosseous devicein accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5D is a schematic drawing in section and in elevation with portionsbroken away showing one example of a connector assembly operable for useto inject drugs or medication into an intraosseous device in accordancewith teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5E is a schematic drawing showing injection of fluids into aconnector assembly in accordance with teaching of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 6A is a schematic drawing showing a top plan view of one embodimentof a supporting structure and attachment mechanism according to thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 6B is a schematic drawing showing a bottom plan view of thesupporting structure and attachment mechanism shown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a drawing showing an isometric view with portions broken awayof a supporting structure and attachment mechanism installed at aninsertion site according to one embodiment of the current disclosure;

FIG. 7B is a schematic drawing in section taken along line 7B-7B of FIG.7A showing an intraosseous device inserted into a bone and associatedbone marrow along with a supporting structure and attachment mechanismincorporating teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8A is a schematic drawing showing an isometric view of anothersupporting structure which may be used with an intraosseous device inaccordance with teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8B is a schematic drawing in section showing one component of oneembodiment of a supporting structure for an intraosseous deviceincorporating teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8C is a schematic drawing in section showing multiple components ofone embodiment of a supporting structure for an intraosseous device inaccordance with teaching of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8D is a schematic drawing in section taken along line 8B-8B of FIG.8A with portions broken away showing an intraosseous device and thesupporting structure of FIG. 8C installed at an insertion site;

FIG. 9A is a schematic drawing showing an isometric view of anotherembodiment of a support structure in a first position for anintraosseous device in accordance with teaching of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 9B is an isometric view of the support structure of FIG. 9A in asecond position;

FIG. 9C is a schematic drawing in section taken along line 9C-9C of FIG.9A;

FIG. 9D is a schematic drawing in section taken along line 9D-9D of FIG.9B;

FIG. 10A is an isometric view of another embodiment of a supportstructure with an intraosseous device disposed therein in accordancewith teaching of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10B is a schematic drawing showing an exploded view of thesupporting structure and intraosseous device of FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11A is a schematic drawing showing an isometric view of anothersupport structure with an intraosseous device disposed therein inaccordance with teaching of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11B is a schematic drawing showing an exploded view of supportingstructure and intraosseous device of FIG. 11A; and

FIG. 11C is a schematic drawing showing a plane view of the supportingstructure of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A is a schematic drawing in section showing portions of anotherembodiment of a support structure for an intraosseous device inaccordance with teaching of the present disclosure, showing an explodedview of the support structure;

FIG. 12B is a schematic drawing in section showing the embodiment ofFIG. 12A with the support structure partially assembled;

FIG. 12C is a schematic drawing in section showing the embodiment ofFIG. 12A with the support structure partially assembled; and

FIG. 12D is a schematic drawing in section showing the embodiment ofFIG. 12A with the support structure partially assembled.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Preferred embodiments of the disclosure and its advantages are bestunderstood by reference to FIGS. 1-12D wherein like numbers refer tosame and like parts.

Vascular system access may be essential for treatment of many seriousdiseases, chronic conditions and acute emergency situations. Yet, manypatients experience extreme difficulty obtaining effective treatmentbecause of inability to obtain or maintain intravenous (IV) access. Anintraosseous (IO) space provides a direct conduit to a patent's vascularsystem and systemic circulation. Therefore, IO access is an effectiveroute to administer a wide variety of drugs, other medications andfluids. Rapid IO access offers great promise for almost any seriousemergency that requires vascular access to administer life saving drugs,other medications and/or fluids when traditional IV access is difficultor impossible.

The upper tibia proximate a patient's knee or the humeral head proximatea patient's shoulder may be used as insertion sites for an IO device toestablish access with the patient's vascular system. Sternal access (notexpressly shown) may also be used as an insertion site. Availability ofmultiple intraosseous sites has proven to be especially important inapplications such as emergency treatment of battlefield casualties orother mass casualty situation. Teachings of the present disclosure maybe used at a wide variety of insertion sites.

The humeral head and sternum provide insertion sites for an intraosseousdevice located above the diaphragm of a patient. Placing or inserting anintraosseous device above the diaphragm may be preferred by someemergency room physicians and trauma surgeons for rapid vascular access.

Teachings of the present disclosure may be satisfactorily used to placeor insert an intraosseous device and to communicate fluids with theintraosseous device at a wide variety of locations. Teachings of thepresent disclosure are not limited to IO devices which may only beinserted at the tibia, humerus, or sternum.

Intraosseous access may also be used as a “routine” procedure withchronic conditions which substantially reduce or eliminate theavailability of conventional IV sites. Examples of such chronicconditions may include, but are not limited to, dialysis patients,seriously ill patients in intensive care units and epilepsy patients.Intraosseous devices along with supporting structure and/or monitoringequipment incorporating teachings of the present disclosure may bequickly and safely used to provide IO access to a patient's vascularsystem in difficult cases such as status epilepticus to give medicalpersonnel an opportunity to administer crucial medications and/orfluids. Further examples of such acute and chronic conditions are listednear the end of this written description.

The ability to satisfactorily maintain an intraosseous (IO) device suchas an IO needle at a desired insertion site may be problematic when apatient is moving or has the potential to move. Inserting an IO devicein the wrong place may expose a patient to potential harm. Patientmovement may be of special concern for patients suffering from statusepilepticus or violent patients (drug overdoses or mental statuschanges) that need to be controlled for their safety and treatment.Epileptic patients may shake violently for prolonged periods which makesstarting a conventional IV nearly impossible.

Insertion sites and associated target areas for IO placement such as apatient's tibia, humerus, or sternum are often larger than insertionsites and associated target areas for placement of an IV device makingIO insertion easier than IV insertion. Problems with maintaining an IOdevice may be minimized by using supporting structures along withattachment mechanisms and attachment techniques incorporating teachingsof the present disclosure. Such supporting structures, attachmentmechanisms and attachment techniques may be easy to apply, even indifficult field environments.

Supporting structures, attachment mechanisms and attachment techniquesmay also be used when harvesting bone and/or bone marrow samples usingan intraosseous device. Such supporting structures, attachmentmechanisms and attendant techniques may be particularly useful when anIO device is inserted into a patient's humeral head or sternum (notexpressly shown) or when inserted into small or pediatric patients. Suchsupporting structures, attachment mechanisms, and/or attachmenttechniques may substantially reduce and/or eliminate wobble which mayoccur during manipulation of an intraosseous device during treatment toobtain one or more samples at a respective insertion site. In addition,such attachment mechanisms and techniques may substantially reduceand/or eliminate the chance of dislodging the IO device in the event ofpatient movement or inadvertent contact by other persons.

The term “driver” may be used in this application to include any type ofpowered driver or manual driver satisfactory for installing anintraosseous (IO) device such as a penetrator assembly or an IO needleinto a selected target site.

For some applications a powered driver or a manual driver may bedirectly coupled with an IO device. For other applications various typesof connectors may be used to couple a manual driver or a powered driverwith an IO device. A wide variety of connectors and associated connectorreceptacles, fittings and/or other types of connections with variousdimensions and configurations may be satisfactorily used to releasablyengage an IO device with a powered driver or a manual driver.

The term “intraosseous (IO) device” may be used in this application toinclude any hollow needle, hollow drill bit, penetrator assembly, bonepenetrator, catheter, cannula, trocar, inner penetrator, outerpenetrator, IO needle or IO needle set operable to provide access to anintraosseous space or interior portions of a bone. A wide variety oftrocars, spindles and/or shafts may be disposed within a cannula duringinstallation at a selected target area. Such trocars, spindles andshafts may also be characterized as inner penetrators. A cannula may becharacterized as an outer penetrator.

The term “fluid” may be used within this patent application to includeany liquid including, but not limited to, blood, water, salinesolutions, IV solutions, plasma or any mixture of liquids, particulatematter, dissolved medication and/or drugs appropriate for injection intobone marrow or other target sites. The term “fluid” may also be usedwithin this patent application to include body fluids such as, but notlimited to, blood, bone marrow and cells which may be withdrawn from atarget site.

Various features of the present disclosure may be described with respectto powered driver 10 and/or manual driver 10 a. Various features of thepresent disclosure may also be described with respect to intraosseousdevice-hub 60. However, supporting structures, attachment mechanisms andattachment techniques incorporating teachings of the present disclosuremay be satisfactorily used with a wide variety of drivers andintraosseous devices. The present disclosure is not limited to use withintraosseous device-hub 60 or drivers 10 or 10 a.

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a powered driver 10 which may besatisfactorily used to insert intraosseous needle set 40 into a selectedtarget area or penetration site. Powered driver 10 may include housing12 with various types of motors and/or gear assemblies disposed therein(not expressly shown). A rotatable shaft (not expressly shown) may bedisposed within housing 12 and connected with a gear assembly (notexpressly shown). Various types of fittings, connections, connectorsand/or connector receptacles may be provided at one end of the rotatableshaft extending from end 14 of housing 12.

For some applications pin type fitting or connector 20 may be formed onthe one end of the rotatable shaft. A matching box type fitting orconnector receptacle may be provided on an intraosseous device so thatconnector 20 of powered driver 10 may be releasably engaged with theintraosseous device. For some applications, connector 20 may have apentagonal shaped cross section with tapered surfaces formed on theexterior thereof.

Handle 16 may include a battery (not expressly shown) or other powersource. Handle 16 may also include trigger assembly 17 for use inactivating powered driver 10. Examples of powered drivers are shown inpending patent application Ser. No. 10/449,503 filed May 30, 2003entitled “Apparatus and Method to Provide Emergency Access to BoneMarrow,” now U.S. Pat. No. 7,670,328; Ser. No. 10/449,476 filed May 30,2003 entitled “Apparatus and Method to Access Bone Marrow,” now U.S.Pat. No. 7,699,850; and Ser. No. 11/042,912 filed Jan. 25, 2005 entitled“Manual Intraosseous Device,” now U.S. Pat. No. 8,641,715.

FIG. 2 shows one example of a manual driver which may be satisfactorilyused to insert an intraosseous device into a selected target area. Forthis embodiment manual driver 10 a may be generally described as havinghandle 16 a with a “pistol grip” configuration. Handle 16 a has anergonomic design with finger grips 22 and one or more finger rests 24.

Connector 20 a may extend from first end 14 a of handle 16 a. Connector20 a may have a configuration and dimensions similar to previouslydescribed connector 20. However, manual drivers may be provided with awide variety of connectors and/or connector receptables. Various detailsconcerning manual drivers are discussed in more detail in pending U.S.patent application, Ser. No. 11/042,912 filed Jan. 25, 2005, entitled“Manual Intraosseous Device,” now U.S. Pat. No. 8,641,715.

FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing showing an exploded view of one example ofa penetrator assembly which may be used to provide access to a patient'svascular system. Penetrator assembly or IO needle set 40 may includeconnector 30, hub 60 and cover 80. Connector 30 may be described ashaving a generally cylindrical configuration defined in part by firstend 31 and second end 32.

First end 31 may include opening 34 formed with various configurationsand/or dimensions. For some applications opening 34 may be sized toreceive portions of a drive shaft. One or more webs (not expresslyshown) may also be formed in first end 31 extending from opening 34.Open segments or void spaces (not expressly shown) may be formed betweensuch webs. Opening 34 and associated webs (if any) may be used toreleasably engage connector 30 with either a manual driver or a powereddriver.

The configuration and dimensions of opening 34 may be selected to becompatible with releasably engaging connector 30 of needle set 40 withconnector 20 of powered driver 10 or connector 20 a of manual driver 10a. For some applications metallic disk 35 may be disposed within opening34 for use in releasably engaging needle set 40 with a magnet (notexpressly shown) disposed on the end of connector 20 or 20 a.

For some applications exterior portion of connector 30 may include anenlarged tapered portion adjacent to first end 31. A plurality oflongitudinal ridges 33 may also be formed on the exterior of connector30 proximate first end 31. The enlarged tapered portion and/orlongitudinal ridges 33 may allow an operator to grasp associated needleset 40 during attachment with a driver and may facilitate disengagementof connector 30 from hub 60 after outer penetrator or cannula 70 hasbeen inserted into a bone and associated bone marrow.

Second opening 36 may be formed in second end 32 of connector 30. Forexample threads 37 may be formed on interior portions of opening 36extending from second end 32. Threads 37 may be sized to engage threads67 formed on an exterior portion of hub 60. In addition, opening 36 mayinclude male luer slip 38, configured to correspond to female luer slip68 in hub 60. It should be noted that male luer slip 38 and female luerslip 68 do not come into physical contact when connector 30 and hub 60are connected. Threads 37 and 67 may be characterized as formingportions of a Luer lock connection. However, the present disclosure isnot limited to threads 37 and 67. Various types of releasableconnections including, but not limited to, other types of lockingconnections may be formed on adjacent portions of connector 30 and hub60.

Trocar or inner penetrator 42 may be securely engaged with connector 30extending from second end 32. The dimensions and configuration of innerpenetrator 42 may be selected to allow inner penetrator 42 to beslidably inserted into longitudinal bore 73 of outer penetrator orcannula 70. Trocar 42 may include first end or tip 44. The dimensionsand configuration of tip 44 may be selected to accommodate insertingpenetrator assembly 40 into bone and associated bone marrow at aselected target area in a patient.

Hub 60 may include first end or distal end 61 and second end or proximalend 62. First end 61 of hub 60 may have a generally cylindrical pin-typeconfiguration compatible with releasably engaging hub 60 with second end32 of connector 30. As previously noted, threads 67 formed adjacent tofirst end 61 of hub 60 may be releasably engaged with threads 37 formedon interior portions of opening 36 of connector 30.

For some applications first end 61 of hub 60 may be configured toaccommodate various connectors and/or to allow access for variousmethods of fluid delivery (e.g., a luer lock, a syringe, a standard IVconnection and/or a needle). For example, first end 61 of hub 60 mayinclude a check valve (not expressly shown), the check valve operable toallow fluid access via engaged luer lock connections and to restrictfluid access in the absence of an engaged luer lock connector. Inanother example, first end 61 of hub 60 may include a gasket (notexpressly shown) operable to allow fluid access when punctured by aneedle and to restrict fluid access in the absence of an engaged needle.

For some applications second end 62 of hub 60 may include flange 63. Thedimensions and configuration of second end 62 of hub 60 may be varied toaccommodate various insertion sites for an IO device. Hub 60 may beformed with a wide variety of flanges or other configurations compatiblewith contacting a patient's skin adjacent a desired insertion site.

Passageway 66 may extend from first end 61 through hub 60 to second end62. Portions of passageway 66 extending from second end 62 may havedimensions selected to be compatible with securely engaging exteriorportions of outer penetrator or cannula 70 with hub 60. Second end 72 ofcannula 70 may be disposed within passageway 66 between first end 61 andsecond end 62. First end 71 of cannula 70 may extend from second end 62of hub 60. Portions of passageway 66 extending from first end 61 of hub60 may have an enlarged inside diameter to accommodate attachment withvarious types of fluid connectors.

Cannula or outer penetrator 70 may have longitudinal bore 73 extendingfrom first end 71 to second end 72. Exterior dimensions of trocar orinner penetrator 42 are preferably selected to allow inner penetrator 42be inserted through outer penetrator 70 with first end 44 of innerpenetrator 42 generally aligned with first end 71 of outer penetrator 70after threads 67 have been engaged with threads 37.

Tip 71 of outer penetrator 70 and/or tip 44 of inner penetrator 42 maybe operable to penetrate bone and associated bone marrow. Theconfiguration of tips 71 and 44 may be selected to penetrate a bone,bone marrow and other portions of a patient's body with minimum trauma.For some applications tip 44 of inner penetrator 42 may have a generallytrapezoid shape with one or more cutting surfaces.

For some applications tips 71 and 44 may be ground together as a singleunit during an associated manufacturing process. Providing a matchingfit allows respective tips 71 and 44 to act as a single drilling unit tominimize damage as portions of IO needle set 40 are inserted into a boneand associated bone marrow.

Inner penetrator 42 may sometimes include a longitudinal groove (notexpressly shown) that runs along one side of inner penetrator 42 toallow bone chips and/or tissue to exit an insertion site as penetratorassembly 40 is drilled deeper into an associated bone. Outer penetrator70 and/or inner penetrator 42 may be formed from various materialsincluding, but not limited to, stainless steel, titanium or any othermaterial having suitable strength and durability to penetrate bone andassociated bone marrow. The combination of hub 60 with cannula 70 maysometimes be referred to as an “intraosseous needle.” The combination oftrocar 42 with cannula 70 may sometimes be referred to as a “penetratorset.”

Second end 62 and particularly flange 63 may be used to stabilize hub 60after insertion into a selected target area of a patient. Second end 32of connector 30 may be releasably engaged from first end 61 of hub 60after insertion of outer penetrator 70 into associated bone marrow. Thedepth of such insertion may be dependent upon the distance between tip71 of cannula 70 and second end 62 of hub 60. Various types of tubingand/or conduit may then be engaged with threads 67 formed on theexterior of hub 60 proximate first end or pin end 61.

Annular slot or groove 64 may be formed within second end 62 and sizedto receive one end of protective cover or needle cap 80. Slot or groove64 may be used to releasably engage cover 80 with penetrator assembly40. For some applications cover 80 may be described as a generallyhollow tube having rounded end or closed end 82. Cover 80 may bedisposed within annular groove 74 to protect portions of outerpenetrator 70 and inner penetrator 42 prior to attachment with a manualdriver or a powered driver. Cover 80 may include a plurality oflongitudinal ridges 84 formed on the exterior thereof. Longitudinalridges 84 may cooperate with each other to allow installing and removingcover or needle cap 80 without contaminating portions of an associatedpenetrator needle or IO device. Cover 80 may be formed from varioustypes of plastics and/or metals.

Container 50 as shown in FIG. 4 may include lid 48. Lid 48 may beconfigured to allow lid 48 to be flipped open with one or more digits ofan operator's hand. With lid 48 open, an operator may releasably engagea driver with an IO device disposed in container. For example, connector20 of powered driver 10 may be releasably engaged with connectorreceptacle 34 of IO needle set 40. Flexible connector 46 may be used toretain lid 48 with container 50 after lid 48 has been opened.

Various examples of apparatus and methods which may be used tocommunicate fluids with an intraosseous device in accordance withteachings of the present disclosure are shown in FIGS. 5A-5E. Variousexamples of supporting structures, supporting devices, attachmentmechanisms and attachment techniques incorporating teachings of thepresent disclosure are shown in FIGS. 6A-11C. Various features of thepresent disclosure may also be discussed with respect to bone 148 andassociated bone marrow 146 as shown in FIGS. 7B and 8D. Bone 148 andbone marrow 146 may be representative of a portion of a patient's upperarm or humeral head.

FIGS. 5A-5E show several embodiments of devices for allowing fluidcommunication to various types of connections including, but not limitedto, a conventional Luer lock connection (not expressly shown) associatedwith supplying IV fluids and/or medications to a patient.

For example, FIG. 5A shows one example of connector assembly 90 whichmay be used to attach tubing or other devices with an intraosseousdevice in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. Connectorassembly 90 may include any appropriate features or components selectedto be compatible with external features of hub 60 or tubing extendingtherefrom. In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 5A, connectorassembly 90 may include internal threads 92 selected to be compatiblewith threads 67 disposed on hub 60.

Connector assembly 90 may also include any appropriate features orcomponents selected to facilitate attachment to any suitable connections(e.g., extension tubes) for fluid delivery or monitoring devices. Forexample, connector assembly 90 may include external threads 94 selectedto be compatible with a luer lock or other threaded connection.

Connector assembly 90 may include components intended to allow fluidaccess to hub 60 when appropriate connectors are present. For example,connector assembly may include plug 96. Plug 96 may be any compressiblematerial (e.g., rubber and/or synthetic rubber). In such embodiments,connector assembly 90 may be configured so that plug 96 is under atleast some compression in order to create a liquid seal against an innersurface of connector assembly 90. For example connector assembly 90 mayinclude a Halkey-Roberts luer activated valve.

FIG. 5B shows an apparatus which may be used to communicate fluids witha target area via an intraosseous device in accordance with teachings ofthe present disclosure. In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG.5B, the apparatus may include traditional IV fluid equipment 110. Insuch embodiments, connecting bag 112 to connector assembly 90 mayinclude compressing plug 96 allowing fluid communication with theinterior of connector assembly 90. Compressing plug 96 allows fluid topass through flexible tubing 100 and thus to hub 60.

One having ordinary skill in the art may recognize additionaltraditional medical equipment that may be compatible with the I0 devicesdescribed herein. Intraosseous infusion may often require a higherpressure than that normally used for intraosseous infusion. Forembodiments such as shown in FIG. 5B, fluid bag 112 may be disposed inpressure cuff 124. Bulb 118 and/or another mechanism may be used tocontrol and/or increase the pressure applied to the fluid in bag 112 bypressure cuff 124. In embodiments including pressure cuff 124 and bulb118, bulb 118 may be operable to inflate pressure cuff 124 throughmanual and/or automatic compression. In an alternative embodiment, apressure pump or other mechanism (not expressly shown) may be used tocontrol and/or increase the pressure of fluid supplied to connectorassembly 90. Pressure cuff 124 may be any device or apparatus configuredto apply pressure to bag 112, thereby increasing the pressure of anyfluid contained in bag 112.

FIG. 5C shows one example of an apparatus which may be connected to hub60 using flexible tubing 100 in accordance with the teachings of thepresent disclosure. In such embodiments, ampule 114 may be attached toflexible tubing 100 using connector assembly 90 as discussed in moredetail as part of FIG. 5B. Flexible tubing 100 may be connected to othercomponents of right angle connector 142 and hub 60 as shown in FIG. 7A.In such embodiments, connecting ampule 114 may include compressing plug96 allowing fluid communication with the interior of connector assembly90 and flexible tubing 100. For example, ampule 114 may include aprojection configured to extend within the body of connector assembly 90and make contact with plug 96. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5C,ampule 114 may include tube 116 configured to compress plug 96 whenampule 114 is threaded onto external threads 94 of connector assembly90.

FIG. 5D shows fluids contained in hypodermic syringe 120 in preparationfor injection into connector assembly 90 coupled with hub 60 viaflexible tubing 100 in accordance with teachings of the presentdisclosure. In such embodiments, connector assembly 90 may include plug96 as described in relation to FIGS. 5A-5C. Plug 96 may be rubber,synthetic material or any material suitable for sealing connectorassembly 90 and compressing to allow fluid flow when proper luer lockcomponents are engaged.

FIG. 5E shows the components of FIG. 5D during the injection of fluidfrom hypodermic syringe 120 into connector assembly 90. In suchembodiments, hypodermic syringe 120 may include needle 122. Needle 122may be configured to penetrate plug 96 and to allow fluid flow fromhypodermic syringe 120 to hub 60 via connector assembly 90, flexibletubing 100 and right angle connector 142.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show one embodiment of supporting structure 130. Forembodiments such as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, supporting structure 130may include an extended surface comprising flexible wings, tabs, flapsand/or other suitable components. In such embodiments, supportingstructure 130 may include any extended surface suitable for extendingfrom central hole 132. Hole 132 may have a configuration and dimensionscompatible with exterior portions of an hub 60. For example, hole 132may be compatible with the dimensions and configuration of first end 61of hub 60 or any other component of hub 60.

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B supporting structure 130 may include aplurality of wings 136 extending from hole 132. Wings 136 may be formedfrom any material, including but not limited to, flexible materialsconfigured to conform to an insertion site or the exterior dimensions ofan IO device or supporting structure 130. Wings 136 may include tabs134. Tabs 134 may be formed from various types of biocompatible,flexible materials. Tabs 134 may include associated adhesive layers 138covered by respective backing 139. Tabs 134 and associated adhesivelayers 138 cooperate with each other to form an extended surfaceoperable to releasably lock supporting structure 130 and an associatedIO device with a patient's skin proximate an insertion site. In otherembodiments supporting structure 130 may include any suitable structuresfor releasably engaging more than one location on a patient.

In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, adhesivelayers 138 may include biocompatible material for releasably attachingto a patient's skin. Backings 139 may include any structure, system ordevice for protecting respective adhesive layers 138 from prematureexposure or premature adhesion. For example, backing 139 may include arelease liner or a release material.

Supporting structure 130 such as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B may be usedwith hub 60, or any other type of IO device. Supporting structure 130may be formed from various types of elastomeric and/or nonelastomericmaterials compatible with contacting skin 145 and other soft tissuecovering a patient's bone at a selected insertion site or target area.The dimensions and configuration of supporting structure 130 may beselected to form satisfactory engagement with adjacent portions of aleg, an arm, or other selected target site for providing access to apatient's vascular system.

Two examples of an intraosseous device inserted into bone and associatedbone marrow along with a supporting structure and attachment mechanismincorporating teachings of the present disclosure are shown in FIGS. 7A,7B, 8A and 8B.

FIG. 7A shows an isometric view of one embodiment of an intraosseousdevice located in the humeral end of a patient and stabilized with asupport structure, as well as connector assembly 90. In this embodiment,support structure 130 may include an extended surface, extended surfacecomprising three tabs 134, tabs 134 including adhesive layers 138.Adhesive layers 138 may be disposed against a patient's skin 145 inposition to provide stability to intraosseous device 40. Wings 136 andtabs 134 may be formed from flexible material operable to conform withexterior portions of hub 60 and/or the configuration of an insertionsite. See FIG. 7B.

As discussed in relation to FIG. 5A, connector assembly 90 may includeany system or device configured to mate with hub 60 and complete a fluidnetwork with the interior of hub 60. For instance, connector assembly100 may include luer lock cap 140, right angle connector 142, andflexible tubing 100. In some embodiments, right angle connector 142 maycomprise any hollow component configured to complete a fluid networkbetween the interior of hub 60 and an external fluid source and/orreceiver such as flexible tubing 100. For instance, right angleconnector 142 may include rigid tubing, piping and/or other suitableconduits.

In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 7A, luer lock cap 140may include internal threads configured to mate with external threads 67as well as male luer slip connector 99 configured to mate with femaleluer slip connector 68. Luer lock cap 140 may be further configured toassure that male luer slip connector 99 is tightly and fully engaged toprovide a seal against the interior of hub 60 but allow fluidcommunication between the interior of hub 60 and right angle connector142. In embodiments including flexible tubing 100, flexible tubing 100may include any appropriate conduit for delivery of fluid, such asmedical tubing and/or tubing made of polyethylene or other material.

FIG. 7B shows a cross section of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7A,taken along line 7B-7B. As shown in FIG. 7B, an intraosseous device maybe generally described as intraosseous (IO) needle 70 having a hollow,longitudinal bore 73 extending therethrough. First end or tip 71 of IOneedle 70 may be designed to drill or cut through bone 148 and penetrateassociated bone marrow 146. Tip 71 may be open to allow communication offluids with bone marrow 146.

Also as shown in FIG. 7B, hub 60 may include collar stop or depthlimiter 150. Depth limiter 150 may be configured to limit penetration ofIO needle 70 into bone marrow 146. Depth limiter 150 may include anydevice, feature, component and/or characteristic suitable for matingwith IO needle 70 and/or hub 60. In some embodiments, such as that shownin FIG. 7B, depth limiter 150 may include a generally cylindricalcomponent having a hollow, longitudinal bore extending therethrough. Thebore of depth limiter 150 may be configured to be compatible with theexternal dimensions of IO needle 70.

Depth limiter 150 may include first end 152. Depth limiter 150 may bedisposed along the length of IO needle 70 so that a predetermined lengthof IO needle 70 extends beyond first end 152. First end 152 may beconfigured to function as a physical stop against the exterior of bone148 without penetrating into bone marrow 146. In such embodiments, depthlimiter 150 may function to limit the penetration of needle 70 into bonemarrow 146.

Depth limiter 150 may include second end 154. Second end 154 may beconfigured to mate with internal features of hub 60 and to fix thelocation of depth limiter 150 in relation to hub 60. Second end 154 mayinclude any physical characteristic, feature, device and/or componentsuitable for mating with hub 60. In some embodiments, such as that shownin FIG. 7B, second end 154 may include a flared portion extending awayfrom the generally cylindrical configuration. In alternativeembodiments, hub 60 may not include depth limiter 150.

FIG. 8A shows an isometric view of another embodiment of supportstructure 130, with an intraosseous device located in the humeral headof the patient. In such embodiments, supporting structure 130 may beused to stabilize hub 60 and limit excessive movement relative to bone148. For some applications portions of supporting structure 130 such ashollow ring or collar 156 may be placed at an insertion site prior toinstalling hub 60. Hub 60 may then be inserted through central hole 132of supporting structure 130.

FIG. 8B shows a cross section of a component of an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. In embodiments such as that shown in FIG. 8B,supporting structure 130 may include relatively short, hollow ring 156.Hollow ring 156 may be formed from material with sufficient strength toprevent undesired movement of hub 60. Interior dimensions of hollow ring156 may correspond generally with exterior dimensions of hub 60 toprovide a relatively snug fit therebetween. Supporting structure 130and/or hollow ring 156 may be formed from various types of semi-rigidsilicone based materials and/or materials satisfactory for providingrequired support to an intraosseous device.

An intraosseous device such as hub 60 may be inserted through hollowring 156. For some applications hub 60 may first be inserted into bonemarrow 146. Inside diameter 158 of hollow ring 156 may be selected to becompatible with the dimensions and configuration of second end 62 suchthat supporting structure 130 may be inserted over or releasably engagedwith hub 60 after insertion into bone marrow 146. Alternatively, hollowring 156 may be formed from material having sufficient flexibility toaccommodate expanding to fit over the exterior of hub 60. Hollow ring156 may have an exterior shape of a cylinder or any other geometricconfiguration compatible with supporting structure 130. For example, inembodiments such as that shown in FIG. 8B, hollow ring 156 may have theexterior shape of the frustum of a cone.

FIG. 8C shows the cross section of one embodiment of supportingstructure 130 in accordance with the present disclosure. In suchembodiments, supporting structure 130 may include hollow ring 156 asshown in FIG. 8B. Supporting structure 130 may include a plurality offlaps, tabs 134 and/or wings 136 extending therefrom. Tabs 134 may beformed from relatively flexible material which will conform withadjacent portions of a patient's skin, soft tissue and bone. Tabs 134may include adhesive layer 138 covered by backing 139.

FIG. 8D shows a cross section taken along line 8D-8D of hub 60 withassociated cannula 70 inserted into bone marrow 146 through hollow ring156 of support structure 130 as depicted in FIG. 8A. In embodiments suchas shown in FIG. 8D, adhesive patches 138 may provide multipleattachment points connecting support structure 130 to the patient's skin145. Tabs 134 and associated adhesive layers may cooperate with eachother to releasably lock hollow ring 156 and an associated IO devicewith skin 145. The structural stability provided by hollow ring 156 incombination with multiple attachment points may be used to stabilize hub60 and limit excessive movement relative to bone 148.

FIGS. 9A-11C illustrate several embodiments of an apparatus forsupporting an intraosseous device. Such apparatus may include innercollar 160 configured to fit over hub 60 and outer collar 162 configuredto mate with inner collar 160. In such embodiments, outer collar 162 maybe formed with an opening configured to mate with the exteriordimensions of inner collar 160. Outer collar 162 and inner collar 160may further include any device or system operable to releasably connectthe two components. For example, interior portions of outer collar 162may include physical features (e.g., detents, grooves, and/or notches)configured to mate with complementary features on inner collar 160. Insome embodiments, outer collar 162 may be operable to slide down againstthe skin at the target site to provide stability when fixed in positionrelative to inner collar 160.

In some embodiments, outer collar 162 may include one or more tubingclips 168. Tubing clips 168 may be any device or structure configured torestrain medical tubing and/or any other material that may be connectedto intraosseous device. For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, tubing clips168 may comprise projections from the main body of outer collar 162curved to restrain movement of any tubing, cable or any other deviceengaged with tubing clips 168.

FIG. 9A shows an embodiment of an apparatus for supporting anintraosseous device. In such embodiments, inner collar 160 and outercollar 162 may include bore 161 extending through cylindrical shapes.Inner collar 160 and outer collar 162 may be configured so that innercollar 160 fits inside an opening in outer collar 162. In someembodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 9A, outer collar 162 may includeone or more projections 164 operable to restrain the movement of innercollar 160 through the opening formed in outer collar 162.

FIG. 9A also depicts one embodiment of extended surface 180. In someembodiments, extended surface 180 may include a thin layer of flexiblematerial configured to adapt to the contours of a patient's body. Inother embodiments, extended surface 180 may be made up discrete tabs orprongs which may provide multiple attachment points. In still otherembodiments, extended surface 180 may include bottom face 174 of outercollar 162. In embodiments such as that shown in FIG. 9A, extendedsurface 180 may include six wings 182 and may be made of elasticmaterial connected to extended surface 180. Wings 182, in suchembodiments, may serve to provide additional support to outer collar 162and hub 60. Extended surface 180 may include adhesive layer 138 (on thereverse of 180 in FIG. 9A). Adhesive layer 138 may be protected fromexposure by backing 139.

FIG. 9B shows an isometric projection of an intraosseous device supportstructure according to an embodiment of the disclosure and previouslydiscussed with respect to FIG. 9A. In FIG. 9B, inner collar or corecollar 160 is shown extending from outer collar 162, prior to itscomplete insertion as shown in FIG. 9A. In such embodiments, outercollar 162 may include tubing clips 168, discussed in greater detailwith respect to FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9C shows a cross section of an intraosseous device supportstructure according to an embodiment of the disclosure, taken along theline 9C-9C shown in FIG. 9B. In such embodiments, inner collar or corecollar 160 may have an interior opening configured to mate with exteriordimensions of hub 60.

As shown in FIGS. 9A-9D, outer collar 162 may include projections 164.Projections 164 may be configured to slide within vertical grooves 166on the exterior of inner collar 160. In some embodiments, such as thoseshown in FIGS. 9A-9D, projections 164 may prevent inner collar 160 fromspinning or rotating relative to outer collar 162. In addition, inembodiments where vertical grooves 166 do not extend the full length ofinner collar 160, projections 164 may prevent inner collar 160 fromsliding vertically upward out of outer collar 162. An example of thislimit on longitudinal movement is best depicted in FIG. 9D.

Inner collar 160 may also include pawls 172. Pawls 172 may be operableto engage with locking grooves 170 formed on inside of outer collar 162.In such embodiments, locking grooves 170 and pawls 172 may be operableto fix the depth of insertion of inner collar 160 into outer collar 162.

FIGS. 9C and 9D further depict pawls 172 included in inner collar 160.Pawls 172 may be any physical or geometric feature configured toprotrude from the inner diameter of inner collar 160, and furtherconfigured to flex outward when hub 60 is placed within inner collar160. In embodiments such as those shown in FIGS. 9A-9D, pawls 172 may beconfigured to flex outward and engage grooves 170 on the interior ofouter collar 162. In such embodiments, the interaction between pawls 172and grooves 170 may be operable to fix the longitudinal position ofinner collar 160 in relation to outer collar 162.

In embodiments including pawls 172, inner collar 160 may comprise aflexible material, such as an elastic polymer or plastic. Inner collar160 may include notches 169 (clearly shown in FIGS. 12A-12D) configuredto increase the physical deflection of pawls 172 upon application to hub60.

FIG. 9D shows a cross section of an intraosseous device supportstructure according to an embodiment of the disclosure, taken throughthe line 9D-9D shown in FIG. 9B. In FIG. 9C, core 160 has been fullyinserted into outer collar 162. In FIG. 9D, inner collar 160 has not yetbeen fully inserted into outer collar 162.

FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B show a close-up isometric view of an embodiment ofthe disclosure including hub 60, inner collar 190 and outer collar 192.In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10B, outer collar 192 may includeteeth 194. Teeth 194 may be any physical feature configured to engagegrooves 191 on inner collar 190. Outer collar 192 may be configured tohave an adjustable inner diameter. The inner diameter of outer collar192 may be configured to reduce in response to force applied to theouter diameter of outer collar 192, as in the embodiment depicted inFIG. 10B. Reduction of the internal diameter of outer collar 192 mayresult in teeth 194 protruding between grooves 191 and holding innercollar 190 in place against longitudinal and/or rotational displacement.

Outer collar 192 may include additional physical features configured tomaintain a reduced inner diameter even after the external force isremoved. For example, outer collar 192 may include snap-grip 198.Snap-grip 198 may be operable to reduce the diameter of outer collar 192as snap-grip 198 is squeezed closed. Snap-grip 198 may include anyfeature operable to restrain the outer collar 192 from increasing thedistance between teeth 194 once reduced. Snap-grip 198 may be operableto release outer collar 192 as snap-grip 198 is twisted open.

FIGS. 11A-11C show a close-up isometric view of another embodiment ofthe disclosure which includes a device to adjust the inner diameter ofouter collar 192. In such embodiments, outer collar 192 may be formed asan ellipse and may be formed out of flexible material. Outer collar 192may include teeth 194 configured to engage grooves 191 on inner collar190 in the absence of an external force. Outer collar 192 may includeteeth 194 on only the long sides of the ellipse. In such embodiments,force applied to the long axis (as shown by the arrows in FIG. 11C) ofthe outer collar 192 may operate to increase the distance between teeth194 and release inner collar 190.

FIGS. 12A-12D depict a cross section of another embodiment of thepresent disclosure. FIGS. 12A-12D demonstrate the sequentialimplementation of one such embodiment, including hub 60, luer lock cap140 and other components. In such embodiments, IO support structure 130may additionally comprise any of the elements disclosed or discussed inthe earlier sections of the current disclosure.

FIGS. 12A-12D shows one embodiment of IO support structure 130 includinghub 60, luer lock cap 140 and right angle connector 142, all of whichare discussed in greater detail in relation to FIGS. 7 and 8. Inembodiments such as that shown in FIG. 12, IO support device 130 mayfurther incorporate inner collar 160 and outer collar 162, discussed ingreater detail in relation to FIGS. 9, 10 and 11.

FIG. 12A shows an exploded view of one embodiment of IO support device130, in preparation for assembly. FIG. 12B shows the same componentsafter inner collar 160 has been placed around hub 60 and positioned sothat first end 61 protrudes beyond inner collar 160. Pawls 172 are alsoshown in this first, retracted position. FIG. 12C shows the assembly ofFIG. 12B after luer lock cap 140 has been attached to first end 61 ofhub 60. Pawls 172 are shown in their second, radially expanded position.In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIGS. 12A-12D, hub 60 mayinclude external threads 67 configured to mate with internal threads onluer lock cap 140. When a user screws luer lock cap 140 to externalthreads 67 of hub 60, the compressive force applied to hub 60 securesthe male luer slip connections 99 on the luer lock cap 140 into thefemale luer slip connections 68 of first end 61 preventing leakage offluid as more fully discussed in FIGS. 5A-5E.

At the same time, the attachment of luer lock cap 140 to hub 60 pushesinner collar 160 in place in relation to hub 60. Luer lock cap 140 maybe configured so as to rotate freely around right angle connector 142.Luer lock cap 140 may be restricted against longitudinal movement bysteps 143 included in right angle connector 142. In addition, inembodiments such as those depicted in FIGS. 12A-12D, threading of luerlock cap 140 onto hub 60 forces inner collar 160 downward onto hub 60.As depicted in FIGS. 12B and 12C, inner collar 160 may include innerdiameter 161 configured to mate with exterior features of hub 60.

In such embodiments, the attachment of luer lock cap 140 may push innercollar 160 downward onto flange 63 on hub 60. Inner collar 160 mayinclude, as discussed in relation to FIGS. 9A-9D, pawls 172 configuredto flex outward in relation to inner collar 160. In such embodiments,flange 63 forces pawls 172 to flex outward from inner collar 160.

FIG. 12D shows the assembly of FIG. 12C placed in relation to outercollar 162. In such embodiments, inner collar 160 and outer collar 162may include any combination of components, including but not limited tothose discussed in relation to FIGS. 9-11. In embodiments such as thatshown in FIG. 12D, inner collar 160 may include pawls 172. Joining luerlock cap 140 to hub 60 may including forcing inner collar 160 ontoflange 63, thereby extending pawls 172 outward from inner collar 160. Asshown in FIG. 12D, pawls 172 may be configured to extend into grooves170 on outer collar 162, thereby fixing the longitudinal position ofinner collar 160 in relation to outer collar 162.

In alternative embodiments, outer collar 162 may not include grooves170. In such embodiments, pawls 172 may be configured to extend outwardand operate as a friction lock with inner diameter 163 of outer collar162. In such embodiments, inner diameter 163 may include any feature(e.g., a rough surface) such that inner diameter 163 and pawls 172 maybe operable to form an effective lock against longitudinal movementbetween inner collar 160 and outer collar 162.

A person having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that thelongitudinal position of inner collar 160 in relations to outer collar162 may be purposefully varied to accommodate various applications. Forexample, if the target insertion site for the IO device includes bonewith a small and/or soft cortex, the bone itself may not provide muchlateral support for hub 60 once inserted. Second end 62 of hub 60 maycontact skin 145 in isolated points or not at all. In such cases, outercollar 162 may intentionally extend downward well beyond inner collar160 in order to provide significant extra stabilization, especially whenused at insertion sites where the skin soft tissue layer is relativelythin. Outer collar 162 may include bottom face 174. Bottom face 174 mayinclude any treatment intended to improve contact between outer collar162 and target insertion site. For example, bottom face 174 may includeany biocompatible adhesive material configured to adhere bottom face 174to skin 145. In embodiments including depth limiter 150, depth limiter150 may restrict the insertion depth of cannula 70 to the extent thathub 60 does not contact skin 145. In such embodiments, outer collar 162may provide extra stabilization when extending downward beyond hub 60and/or inner collar 160.

Although the present disclosure and its advantages have been describedin relation to intraosseous devices, it should be clear to a personhaving ordinary skill in the art that these teachings can be applied tosupport a variety of medical devices in relation to a patient. Forexample, embodiments of the present disclosure might be utilized tosupport any intravenous connection or device, a central line, anendotracheal tube, a chest tube, a catheter, dialysis tubing and/or anyother device intended to make a fluid connection to one or more systemsof the patient.

Examples of acute and chronic conditions which may be treated usingintraosseous devices and procedures incorporating teachings of thepresent disclosure include, but are not limited to, the following:

-   -   Anaphylaxis (epinephrine, steroids, antihistamines, fluids, and        life support) Arrhythmia (anti-arrhythmics, electrolyte balance,        life support);    -   Burns (fluid replacement, antibiotics, morphine for pain        control);    -   Cardiac arrest (epinephrine, atropine, amiodarone, calcium,        xylocalne, magnesium);    -   Congestive heart failure (life support, diuretics, morphine,        nitroglycerin);    -   Dehydration (emergency port for life support, antibiotics,        blood, electrolytes);    -   Diabetic Ketoacidosis (life support, electrolyte control, fluid        replacement);    -   Dialysis (emergency port for life support, antibiotics, blood,        electrolytes);    -   Drug overdose (naloxone, life support, electrolyte correction);    -   Emphysema (life support, beta adrenergics, steroids);    -   Hemophiliacs (life support, blood, fibrin products, analgesics);    -   Osteomyelitis (antibiotics directly into the site of infection,        analgesics);    -   Pediatric applications (shock, dehydration, nutrition,        electrolyte correction);    -   Seizures (anti-seizure medications, life support, fluid        balance);    -   Shock (life support fluids, pressor agents, antibiotics,        steroids);    -   Sickle cell crisis (fluid, morphine for pain, blood,        antibiotics);    -   Trauma (emergency port for life support fluids, antibiotics,        blood, electrolytes);

Although the present disclosure and its advantages have been describedin detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutionsand alternations can be made herein without departing from the spiritand scope of the disclosure as defined by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for supporting an intraosseousdevice disposed at a target site in a patient comprising: a supportingstructure having an opening formed therethrough; the opening having aconfiguration and interior dimensions compatible with exterior portionsof the intraosseous device; the structure configured to at leastpartially enclose the intraosseous device after the intraosseous devicehas been disposed at the target site and inserted into a bone of thepatient; the supporting structure having an extended surface with anadhesive layer disposed thereon; the adhesive layer operable toreleasably engage the apparatus to a patient proximate the target siteafter the intraosseous device has been inserted in the bone of thepatient; the adhesive layer extending over at least a portion of theextended surface; and the apparatus configured such that theintraosseous device can be inserted into the bone of the patient whilenot coupled to the apparatus.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein theapparatus further comprises: a backing proximate the adhesive layer; andthe backing covering the adhesive layer prior to installing theapparatus at the target site.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein thebacking comprises a release liner.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1 whereinthe apparatus further comprises the extended surface generally flexiblefor adapting to contours of a patient's body near the target site. 5.The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the extended surface further comprisesa plurality of tabs extending outwardly from the supporting structure.6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the extended surface furthercomprises at least three tabs extending outwardly from the supportingstructure.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the supporting structurefurther comprises tubing clips operable to restrain a tubing which maybe attached to the intraosseous device.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1wherein the supporting structure further comprises: a generally hollow,cylindrical portion; and an inner diameter of the cylindrical portionsized to receive a portion of the intraosseous device therein.
 9. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein the supporting structure further comprises:a generally hollow, cylindrical portion; and an inner diameter of thecylindrical portion including at least one pawl operable to mate withone or more features on one or more exterior portions of theintraosseous device.
 10. An apparatus for supporting an intraosseousdevice disposed at a target site in a patient comprising: a generallyhollow, cylindrical inner collar, having a configuration and interiordimensions compatible with exterior portions of the intraosseous device;an outer collar having an opening formed therein; the outer collaropening having a configuration and interior dimensions compatible withexterior portions of the cylindrical inner collar; an extended surfaceassociated with the outer collar such that at least a portion of theextended surface is in fixed relation to the outer collar; an adhesivelayer operable to releasably engage the apparatus to a patient proximatethe target site; and the adhesive layer extending over at least aportion of the extended surface.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10 whereinthe inner collar further comprises at least one pawl, configured to matewith the interior of the outer collar.
 12. An apparatus for supportingan intraosseous device disposed at a target area in a patientcomprising: a supporting structure having an opening formedtherethrough; the opening having a configuration and interior dimensionscompatible with exterior portions of the intraosseous device; thesupporting structure operable to releasably engage the apparatus to apatient proximate the target site after the intraosseous device has beeninserted in a bone of the patient; the structure configured to at leastpartially enclose the intraosseous device after the intraosseous deviceand been disposed at the target site and inserted into a bone of thepatient; a connector assembly attached to the intraosseous device; theconnector assembly including a one-way valve operable to connect theintraosseous device with a fluid source; and the apparatus configuredsuch that the intraosseous device can be inserted into the bone of thepatient while not coupled to the apparatus.
 13. The apparatus of claim12 wherein the fluid source further comprises a conduit operable toreceive fluid from a sterile bag of fluids.
 14. apparatus of claim 12wherein the fluid source further comprises a conduit operable to receivefluid from an ampule.
 15. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the fluidsource further comprises a conduit operable to receive fluid from ahypodermic needle operable to penetrate portions of the one-way valve.16. A method of providing vascular access in a patient comprising:inserting an intraosseous device into bone marrow at a target site inpatient's limb; and using the apparatus of claim 1 to support theintraosseous device.
 17. A method of providing vascular access in apatient comprising: inserting an intraosseous device into bone marrow ata target site in patient's limb; and using the apparatus of claim 10 tosupport the intraosseous device.
 18. An apparatus for supporting amedical device disposed at a target site in a patient comprising: asupporting structure having an opening formed therethrough; the openinghaving a configuration and interior dimensions compatible with exteriorportions of the medical device; the supporting structure configured toat least partially enclose the medical device after the medical devicehas been disposed at the target site and inserted into a bone of thepatient; the supporting structure having an extended surface with anadhesive layer disposed thereon; the adhesive layer operable toreleasably engage the apparatus to a patient proximate the target siteafter the medical device has been inserted in the bone of the patient;the adhesive layer extending over at least a portion of the extendedsurface; a connector assembly in fluid communication with the medicaldevice; the connector assembly including a one-way valve operable toconnect the medical device with a conduit; and the apparatus configuredsuch that the medical device can be inserted into the bone of thepatient while not coupled to the apparatus.
 19. The apparatus of claim18 further comprising the medical device selected from the groupconsisting of an intravenous device, an intraosseous device, a centralline cannula, an endotracheal tube, an orotracheal tube, a nasotrachealtube, or a peritoneal dialysis catheter.